TECHNOLOGY PLAN SUMMARY SHEET - Web viewSituated in northern Gratiot County, Michigan, the community of St. Louis was settled in

TECHNOLOGY PLAN COVER PAGE District: St. Louis SchoolsDistrict Code: 29100

Address:113 E. SaginawSt. Louis, MI 48880

Contact:Steve Brimmer-TechnologyDirector

Phone:(989) 681-2545

Fax:(989) 681-5894

Email:[email protected]

ISD:Gratiot Isabella RESD

URL:http://www.stlouisschools.net/domain/34

Years covered by this plan: 7/2014 to 6/2017Next state review due: 5/2017

Document Creation Date: 5/19/2014

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TABLE OF CONTENTS • Introductory Material

Mission Statement 4

Introduction and History 4

• Technology Vision and Goals

Technology Vision Statement 6

Technology Goals 6

• Curriculum Integration

Goal Alignment 7

Strategies for achievement 15

Promoting effective strategies 16

• Student Achievement

Technology Integration 17

Technology Integration Timeline 18

• Technology Delivery

Distance and Interactive Learning 18

• Communications and Relations

Technology Plan dissemination 20

Parent communication and involvement 21

Community representation 22

• Collaboration

Collaboration description 22

• Professional Development

Professional Development Strategies 23

Indication of integration 24

Timeline for integration 24

Standards 24

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• Supporting Resources 25

• Infrastructure, Hardware, Tech. Support, and Software

Technology Infrastructure 26

Strategies and sustainability 27

Technical Support 27

• Increased Access 28

• Funding and Budget 29

• Coordination of Resources 30

• Monitoring and Evaluation 30

• Filtering and Acceptable Use Policy

Filtering 32

AUP 33

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**INTRODUCTORY MATERIAL** Section 2

DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT

St. Louis Schools Mission is to:

Our mission is to help all students strive for excellence. In pursuit of this mission, the St. Louis Public Schools will:

• Always place children first • Provide a safe, caring educational environment • Involve the community in the educational program • Integrate technology into the learning process • Keep the District financially sound

INTRODUCTION Situated in northern Gratiot County, Michigan, the community of St. Louis was settled in 1853. The St. Louis Public School District opened its first school in 1857. During the 2013-2014 academic year, the St. Louis Public School District was home to approximately 1,150 students, 72% of which are considered at-risk. St. Louis Public Schools employs 66 teachers and approximately another 70 support staff (including paraprofessionals, bus drivers, etc…). St. Louis Community School Facilities: There are five (5) school buildings within the St. Louis Public School District. Currently the Carrie Knause Early Childhood Learning Center houses students in Pre-School, Young 5’s, Kindergarten, and 1st grade, and 2nd grade; Nikkari Elementary houses students in 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade; T.S. Nurnberger houses students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades; the St. Louis High School houses students in 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades; Westgate School houses students from 6th grade through 12th grade.

The St. Louis Public School District has made great strides in the past few years and will continue to integrate new technologies into its curriculum. Voice, video, and data will undoubtedly enhance the current educational delivery system, enabling all students to learn well, and staff to make well informed data-driven decisions. Technology is being integrated directly into the foundation and fabric of any new construction.

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FACILITIES LOCATIONS

Carrie Knause. ECLC121 I&KSt. Louis, MI 48880

Nikkari Elementary 301 W. State St.St. Louis, MI 48880

TSN Middle School 312 N. Union St.St. Louis, MI 48880

St. Louis High School 113 E. Saginaw St.St. Louis, MI 48880

Westgate840 CheesmanSt. Louis, MI 48880

*Non-educational sites include a Transportation and Maintenance facility. Individual School Building Statistics:

School Teachers Students Ratio Free Lunch Eligibility

Carrie Knause 17 269 15.82 75.4%

Nikkari Elementary

18 276 15.33 66.8%

TSN Middle School

17 300 17.6 63%

St. Louis High School

18 356 19.7 59.2%

Westgate 1 15 15 100%

District-Wide Statistics:

10-11 11-12 12-13 13-14

Enrollment 1143 1134 1121 1152

Spec Ed Students 83 76 81 79

Free Lunch % 81.6% 85.4% 84.2% 86.7%

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** TECHNOLOGY VISION AND GOALS** Section 3

TECHNOLOGY VISION STATEMENT

Create and implement a community-wide, technology-driven information system that will enable the students of the St. Louis Public School District to maximize their individual learning potential, develop strong citizenship qualities, become technological leaders,

and remain life-long learners.

TECHNOLOGY GOALS

1. Technology Curriculum and Integration

To provide and promote the infusion of technology into the classroom to enhance and support instruction and learning.

To utilize technology to deliver specialized classes and experiences for students.

2. Professional Development

To provide ongoing professional development and support in technology correlated with the state and national standards.

3. Parents and Community

To provide, improve and promote community and parental communications through the use of technology.

4. Technology and Infrastructure

To provide the access, hardware, software and support required to implement the District Technology Plan.

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**CURRICULUM INTEGRATION** Section 4

GOAL ALIGNMENT

St. Louis Public Schools has chosen to align with The State of Michigan Education Technology Standards (METS). The State of Michigan Education Technology Standards are currently closely aligned with NETS (National Education Technology Standards). This alignment process provides continuity of standards at local, state, and federal levels.

Michigan Educational Technology Standards (METS) 2009 - PK-8 Checklist by Grade Levels

O = Teacher Observation

P = Portfolio Evidence

A = Formal Assessment = Technology Literacy Class

Grades PK through 2 –Technology Standards and Expectations – (prior to completing Grade 2)PK_2.CI Creativity and Innovation - By the end of Grade 2 each student will: PK K 1 2

use a variety of digital tools (e.g., word processors, drawing tools, simulations, presentation software, graphical organizers) to learn, create, and convey original ideas or illustrate concepts

PK_2.CC. Communication and Collaboration - By the end of Grade 2 each student will: PK K 1 2work together when using digital tools (e.g., word processor, drawing,

presentation software) to convey ideas or illustrate simple concepts relating to a specified project

use a variety of developmentally appropriate digital tools (e.g., word processors, paint programs) to communicate ideas to classmates, families, and others

PK_2.RI. Research and Information Fluency - By the end of Grade 2 each student will: PK K 1 2interact with internet based resourcesuse digital resources (e.g., dictionaries, encyclopedias, graphs, graphical

organizers) to locate and interpret information relating to a specific curricular topic, with assistance from teachers, school library media specialists, parents, or student partners

PK_2.CT. Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making - By the end of Grade 2 each student will:

PK K 1 2

explain ways that technology can be used to solve problems (e.g., cellphones, traffic lights, GPS units)

use digital resources (e.g., dictionaries, encyclopedias, search engines, web sites) to solve developmentally appropriate problems, with assistance from teachers, parents, school media specialists, or student partners

PK_2.DC. Digital Citizenship - By the end of Grade 2 each student will: PK K 1 2describe appropriate and inappropriate uses of technology (e.g., computers,

internet, e-mail, cell phones) and describe consequences of inappropriate uses

know the Michigan Cyber Safety Initiative’s three rules (Keep Safe, Keep Away, Keep Telling) 6

identify personal information that should not be shared on the Internet (e.g.

Michigan Educational Technology Standards (METS) 2009 - 3 to 5Checklist



A = Formal Assessment C = Technology Literacy Class

Grades Three through Five – Technology Standards and Expectations – (prior to completingGrade 5)

3_5.CI. Creativity and Innovation - By the end of Grade 5 each student will: 3 4 51. produce a media-rich digital project aligned to state curriculum standards

(e.g., fable, folk tale, mystery, tall tale, historical fiction)2. use a variety of technology tools and applications to demonstrate their

creativity by creating or modifying works of art, music, movies, or presentations

3. participate in discussions about technologies (past, present, and future) to understand these developments are the result of human creativity

3_5.CC. Communication and Collaboration - By the end of Grade 5 each student will:

3 4 5

1. use digital communication tools (e.g., e-mail, wikis, blogs, IM, chat rooms, videoconferencing, Moodle, Blackboard) and online resources for group learning projects

2. identify how different software applications may be used to share similar information, based on the intended audience (e.g., presentations for classmates, newsletters for parents)

3. use a variety of media and formats to create and edit products (e.g., presentations, newsletters, brochures, web pages) to communicate information and ideas to various audiences

3_5.RI. Research and Information Fluency - By the end of Grade 5 each student will:

3 4 5

1. identify search strategies for locating information with support, from 7 teachers and school library media specialists

2. use digital tools to find, organize, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information

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rd th3. understand and discuss that web sites and digital resources may contain

inaccurate or biased information4. understand that using information from a single internet source might result

in the reporting of erroneous facts and that multiple sources should always be researched

3_5.CT. Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making - By the end of Grade 5 each student will:

3 4 5

1. use digital resources to access information that can assist them in making informed decisions about everyday matters (e.g., which movie to see, which product to purchase)

2. use information and communication technology tools (e.g., calculators, probes, videos, DVDs, educational software) to collect, organize, and evaluate information to assist with solving problems

3. use digital resources to identify and investigate a state, national, or global issue (e.g., global warming, economy, environment)

name, address, phone number)

4. know to inform a trusted adult if they receive or view an online communication which makes them feel uncomfortable, or if someone whom they don’t know is trying to communicate with them or asking for personal information

PK_2.TC. Technology Operations and Concepts - By the end of Grade 2 each student will: PK K 1 21. discuss advantages and disadvantages of using technology2. be able to use basic menu commands to perform common operations (e.g.,

open, close, save, print)3. recognize, name, and label the major hardware components in a computer

system (e.g., computer, monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer)4. discuss the basic care for computer hardware and various media types (e.g.,

CDs, DVDs, videotapes)5. use developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology when talking about

technology6. understand that technology is a tool to help him/her complete a task, and is a

source of information, learning, and entertainment7. demonstrate the ability to navigate in virtual environments (e.g., electronic

books, games, simulation software, web sites)

Michigan Educational Technology Standards (METS) 2009 - 6 to 8 ChecklistO = Teacher Observation



Grades Six through Eight – Technology Standards and Expectations – (prior to completingGrade 8)

6_8.CI. Creativity and Innovation – By the end of Grade 8 each student will: 6 71. apply common software features (e.g., spellchecker, thesaurus, formulas,

charts, graphics, sounds) to enhance communication with an audience and to support creativity

2. create an original project (e.g., presentation, web page, newsletter, information brochure) using a variety of media (e.g., animations, graphs, charts, audio, graphics, video) to present content information to an audience

3. illustrate a content-related concept using a model, simulation, or concept-mapping software

6_8.CC. Communication and Collaboration – By the end of Grade 8 each student 6 7 10

will:1. use digital resources (e.g., discussion groups, blogs, podcasts,

videoconferences, Moodle, Blackboard) to collaborate with peers, experts, and other audiences

2. use collaborative digital tools to explore common curriculum content with learners from other cultures

3. identify effective uses of technology to support communication with peers, family, or school personnel

6_8.RI. Research and Information Fluency – By the end of Grade 8 each student will:

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1. use a variety of digital resources to locate information2. evaluate information from online resources for accuracy and bias

3. understand that using information from a single internet source might result in the reporting of erroneous facts and that multiple sources should always be researched

4. identify types of web sites based on their domain names (e.g., edu, com, org, gov, net)

th th

5. employ data-collection technologies (e.g., probes, handheld devices, GPS units, geographic mapping systems) to gather, view, and analyze the results for a content-related problem


6 7 8

1. use databases or spreadsheets to make predictions, develop strategies, and evaluate decisions to assist with solving a problem

2. evaluate available digital resources and select the most appropriate application to accomplish a specific task (e, g., word processor, table, outline, spreadsheet, presentation program)

3. gather data, examine patterns, and apply information for decision making using available digital resources

4. describe strategies for solving routine hardware and software problems



P = Portfolio Evidence A = Formal Assessment

C = Technology Literacy Class

Grades Nine through Twelve – Technology Standards and Expectations – (prior to the completion of grade 12)

9_12.CI. Creativity and Innovation – By the end of Grade 12 each student will: 9 10 11 121. apply advanced software features (e.g. built-in thesaurus, templates, styles) to

redesign the appearance of word processing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations

2. create a web page (e.g., Dreamweaver, iGoogle, Kompozer)3. use a variety of media and formats to design, develop, publish, and present

projects (e.g., newsletters, web sites, presentations, photo galleries)9_12.CC. Communication and Collaboration - By the end of Grade 12 each student will:

9 10 11 12

1. identify various collaboration technologies and describe their use (e.g., desktop conferencing, listserv, blog, wiki)

2. use available technologies (e.g., desktop conferencing, e-mail, videoconferencing, instant messaging) to communicate with others on a class assignment or project

3. collaborate in content-related projects that integrate a variety of media (e.g., print, audio, video, graphic, simulations, and models)

4. plan and implement a collaborative project using telecommunications tools (e.g., ePals, discussion boards, online groups, groupware, interactive web sites, videoconferencing)

5. describe the potential risks and dangers associated with online communications

6. use technology tools for managing and communicating personal information(e.g., finances, contact information, schedules, purchases, correspondence)

9_12.RI. Research and Information Fluency – By the end of Grade 12 each student will:

9 10 11 12

1. develop a plan to gather information using various research strategies (e.g., interviews, questionnaires, experiments, online surveys)

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th th

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2. identify, evaluate, and select appropriate online sources to answer content related questions

3. demonstrate the ability to use library and online databases for accessing information (e. g. MEL, Proquest, Infosource, United Streaming)

4. distinguish between fact, opinion, point of view, and inference5. evaluate information found in selected online sources on the basis of

accuracy and validity6. evaluate resources for stereotyping, prejudice, and misrepresentation7. understand that using information from a single internet source might result

in the reporting of erroneous facts and that multiple sources must always be researched

8. research examples of inappropriate use of technologies and participate in related classroom activities (e.g., debates, reports, mock trials, presentations)





Grades Nine through Twelve – Technology Standards and Expectations – (prior to the completion of grade 12)


9 10 11 12

1. use digital resources (e.g., educational software, simulations, models) for problem solving and independent learning

2. analyze the capabilities and limitations of digital resources and evaluate their potential to address personal, social, lifelong learning, and career needs

3. devise a research question or hypothesis using information and communication technology resources, analyze the findings to make a decision based on the findings, and report the results

9_12.DC. Digital Citizenship – By the end of Grade 12 each student will: 9 10 11 121. identify legal and ethical issues related to the use of information

and communication technologies ( e.g., properly selecting, acquiring, and citing resources)

2. discuss possible long-range effects of unethical uses of technology (e.g., virus spreading, file pirating, hacking) on cultures and society

3. discuss and demonstrate proper netiquette in online communications

4. identify ways that individuals can protect their technology systems from unethical or unscrupulous users

5. create appropriate citations for resources when presenting research findings

6. discuss and adhere to fair use policies and copyright guidelines

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9_12.TC. Technology Operations and Concepts - By the end of Grade 12 each student will:

9 10 11 12

th th

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1. complete at least one online credit, or non-credit, course or online learning experience

2. use an online tutorial and discuss the benefits and disadvantages of this method of learning

3. explore career opportunities, especially those related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and identify their related technology skill requirements

4. describe uses of various existing or emerging technology resources (e.g., podcasting, webcasting, videoconferencing, online file sharing, global positioning software)

5. identify an example of an assistive technology and describe its purpose and use

6. participate in a virtual environment as a strategy to build 21st century learning skills

7. assess and solve hardware and software problems by using online help or other user documentation

8. explain the differences between freeware, shareware, open source, and commercial software

9. participate in experiences associated with technology-related careers

10. identify common graphic, audio, and video file formats (e.g., jpeg, gif, bmp, mpeg, wav, wmv, mp3, flv, avi, pdf)

11. understand and discuss how assistive technologies can benefit all individuals

12. demonstrate how to import/export text, graphics, or audio files13. proofread and edit a document using an application’s spelling

and grammar checking functions

STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

The METS and NETS technology foundation standards for students are divided into six broad categories. Standards within each category are to be introduced, reinforced, and mastered by students. These categories provide a framework for linking performance indicators within the Profiles for Technology Literate Students to the standards. Teachers can use these standards and profiles as guidelines for planning technology-based activities in which students achieve success.

The following strategies for improving academic achievement and teacher effectiveness through technology integration either will be or currently are being employed:

Identify needs to achieve our goals for using technology to improve teaching and learning

Identify and support technology integration into curriculum, instruction, and assessment

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Identify necessary technology and steps to increase accessibility to this technology

Identify professional development needs Identify funding need and explore options for funding. Identifying hardware, software and web resources. Repair, upkeep, and replacement of current hardware and network assets.

Adequate technology staff for technical and curriculum support.

PROMOTING EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES

Consistent, constant auditing and tracking of individual student achievement will allow St. Louis Public Schools to effectively identify, expand upon, and promote use of successful strategies that use technology in the curriculum to enhance and improve an effective learning process.

The adoption of data warehousing via Data Director will allow staff to track individual student progress throughout the student’s enrollment at St. Louis Public Schools.

All buildings have technology integration specifically included in their building plans.

Currently St. Louis Public Schools has several software programs in place that allow instructional staff and administrators to track individual student progress in specific core curriculum areas.

These include (but are not limited to):

Flipped Classrooms: Several high school teachers and one middle school teacher have “flipped” their classrooms

Success Maker – used in 2nd through 8th grades to varying degrees, focused on 2nd through 5th.

Accelerated/STAR Reader – used in PreK through 8th grades to varying degrees. Accelerated/STAR Math – used in 2nd through 8th grades to varying degrees. Various Edmark software titles – Used primarily for pre-K through 1st grades. Data Director -- for data warehousing. Edmodo – learning resource Moodle – learning resource Khan Academy – learning resource

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**STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT** Section 5

TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION

St. Louis Public Schools uses the METS standards for students as a foundation for determining the appropriate technology level for students at each grade level. Specific standards within each of the categories will be introduced, reinforced, and mastered by student in the appropriate grade level, each building on the previously mastered tasks. Teachers will be able to use these standards as guidelines for planning technology activities that will engage students in learning, communication, and life skills.

Elementary School Grades PK-2 and 3-5

The METS provide 18 Pk-2 and 13 3-5 technology performance indicators or exit skills that Pre-K and 3-5th grade elementary school students should be able to achieve upon completion of elementary school levels. Elementary students will learn the components of the METS at various mastery levels including keyboarding, word processing, desktop publishing, technology management, multimedia, and telecommunications/Internet. A project-oriented approach will provide opportunities for students to use a variety of technology tools within the elementary content areas.

St. Louis Middle School Grades 6-8

The St. Louis Middle School curriculum will reinforce and extend the basic skills learned at the elementary level. There are 32 technology performance indicators or exit skills that middle school students must achieve upon completion of eighth grade. Middle school students will learn the six components of the METS at various mastery levels including keyboarding, word processing, desktop publishing, technology management, multimedia, databases, spreadsheets, and telecommunications/Internet. Web page design and animation authoring are introduced. Middle school learners will continue to use technology as a communication and research tool throughout the middle school content areas.

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St. Louis High School

The St. Louis High School curriculum will reinforce and extend the exit skills of eighth grade. Students will learn the 39 components of the METS at various mastery levels including, advanced word processing, desktop publishing, technology management, multimedia, database manipulation, spreadsheet applications, online communications, online research, and problem solving strategies. High school students will be able to elect technology courses for enhanced instruction in technology career-focused pathways such as Web Page Design, Advanced Programming, Computer Animation, CAD/CAM, Advanced Accounting, and Advanced Business Management.

TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION TIMELINE

St. Louis Public Schools is committed to continuous technology advancement. St. Louis Public Schools will provide and maintain the newest technologies available. The following timeline provides a graphical representation of the overall goals of the St. Louis Public Schools Technology Plan. The following timetable provides a summary list of major activities for each year of the plan.

2014-15 Goal One: Technology Curriculum and Integration:

Curriculum integration development Survey of teachers to determine training needs

Goal Two: Professional Development:

Development and implementation of District and building level PD plans One to one training Curriculum integration training Evaluations of existing technology

Goal Three: Parents and Community:

Inclusion of Technology Plan on District website Dissemination of technology information at open house (Powerschool)

Provide more parent accessible data Goal Four: Technology and Infrastructure:

Update/replace video surveillance and alarm systems Server and network storage upgrade/installation Deploy mobile devices including iPads and Chromebooks Upgrade digital TV system if possible

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Upgrade District web page and web portals Develop Professional Development strategies Purchase replacement

equipment as necessary 2015-2016 Goal One: Technology Curriculum and Integration

Continued curriculum integration development and implementation Goal Two: Professional Development

Annual revision and continued implementation of District and building level PD plans

Survey of teachers to determine training needs Training opportunities based on identified needs made available Continued curriculum integration training

Goal Three: Parents and Community

Continued use of technology to communicate with parents Use of technology to share information with the community

Goal Four: Technology and Infrastructure

Deploy more mobile computing devices Purchase replacement equipment as necessary Wireless network review

2016-17 Goal One: Technology Curriculum and Integration

Continued curriculum integration development and implementation Goal Two: Professional Development

Annual revision and continued implementation of building level PD plans Survey of teachers to determine training needs Training opportunities based on identified needs made available Continued curriculum integration training

Goal Three: Parents and Community

Continued use of technology to communicate with parents Use of technology to share information with the community

Goal Four: Technology and Infrastructure Purchase replacement equipment as necessary

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**TECHNOLOGY DELIVERY** Section 6

St. Louis Public Schools provides distance learning by using local resources as well as equipment available at a local RESD location named “GTEC”. GTEC is run by the Gratiot-Isabella RESD in cooperation with several local agencies. A professionally designed distance-learning classroom with two-way video and audio is available for use by all students in the district. The St. Louis Public School district can arrange for transportation to and from the GTEC building. Students are also able to take on-line courses via Michigan Virtual High School. The St. Louis Public School District encourages students and teachers to examine the wide variety of classes offered through Michigan Virtual High School, and to explore the opportunities for education, development, and curriculum delivery strategies. St. Louis Public Schools has the ability to offer students and teachers interactive video through cooperation with the local RESD and use of their portable Polycom interactive video units. These units allow St. Louis Public Schools to deliver high quality interactive video to every classroom in the district.

**COMMUNITY RELATIONS** Section 7

Technology Plan Dissemination

The following methods of communication will be used to ensure community access to the district technology plan:

The District’s Technology plan is available on the Internet to keep parents and community members informed of how students are using technology in the learning process at http://www.St. Louisschools.net/district/technology/

The district will work both independently and in conjunction with the GratiotIsabella Regional Education Service District (GI-RESD) and the regional educational media center (REMC 5) to promote its Technology plan and to ensure that the Technology Plan is promoted in as many mass market media outlets as possible.

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Parent communication and involvement

The St. Louis Public School District administration has worked diligently to expand the benefits of technology in school-to-home communications and in communications throughout the district. Web pages, newsletters, calendars, telephones, social media, and E-mail are all used to communicate district and classroom events to parents and the community at large.

In addition to a District web page, all of the schools in the District have a web

page where parents can find information on school events, procedures, and curriculum in addition to:

• Examples of student work • PTO minutes and projects • School Newsletters • Links for students and parents

All buildings are now using email and web pages to keep parents informed of

classroom events, homework, newsletters and instructional content.

Parents involved in school improvement committees and parent teacher organizations continue to provide valuable input and feedback on how technology is best used with students and within St. Louis Public Schools.

The Power School student management program includes Parent Connect through

which parents are able to monitor their student. The Power School student management program includes Power Announcement,

which enables the district to send messages to parents via voice and text.

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Community Representation

MEMBERS OF THE ST. LOUIS PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

Of the current Technology Committee, most members are not only employees of St. Louis Public Schools, but are also community members with deep ties to the schools, students, parents, and community. Their input is extremely valuable to ongoing technology planning for St. Louis Public Schools.

**COLLABORATION** Section 8

Most current programs and all future programs within the St. Louis Public School district will be developed and improved in collaboration with existing regional educational service providers, supporters, and community stakeholders. Current members of this community wide collaborative effort are:

Probate & Juvenile Court Department of Human Services Department of Civil Rights United Way Central Michigan University Salvation Army Gratiot Medical Center Michigan Virtual University Chamber of Commerce Gratiot-Isabella RESD REMC 5

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Steve Brimmer: Technology Coordinator

Charles Schnetzler: Interim Superintendent

Chris Macklin: Principal

Carl Sztuczko: Principal

Wes Johnson: Dean of Students

Jennifer McKittrick: Assistant Principal

Dave Andrews: Technology Specialist

Karen Bebow: Parent, Shark Foundation

Chris McJilton: Community Member

Carrie Salladay: Board Member, Shark Foundation

St. Louis Public Schools provides a full service adult education program. The district has provided this service to the community for a number of years and will continue to provide these services as long as it remains feasible to do so.

**PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT** Section 9

Strategies

The most important part of the investment in technology is the St. Louis Public School District's commitment toward professional development and ongoing learning. In order to meet this challenge, the St. Louis Public Schools Technology Committee surveys the K12 instructional staff to produce the districts professional development plan, which includes:

Use of available technologies: Continued reinforcement and strengthening of skills in basic computer operation, including topics like: file management, word processing, email and communications.

TRIG: St. Louis participated in the TRIG training modules in 2013-2014

Google Training: St. Louis will be having teachers become certified Google Trainers in the summer of 2014.

New technologies: As new technologies become available to staff, needed training will also be available. This includes iPads and Chromebooks that are currently being deployed.

County and State opportunities:

• Gratiot Isabella ISD: St. Louis staff members have participated in and will continue to take advantage of various technology professional development activities and trainings including:

• 21 Things for the 21st Century Educator

• 21 Things for the 21st Century Administrator

• 21 Things for the 21st Century Student

• Data Director

Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL:

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• St. Louis Public Schools sends staff to both the annual state MACUL conference as well as theme conferences.

Integration

Recognizing student success is directly related to successful professional development, professional development opportunities will be based upon:

Classroom technology needs

Individual teacher technology literacy

21 Things for the 21st Century Educator. 21 Things for the 21st Century Educator has completed a Seal of Alignment from the ISTE. ISTE determined that this resource provides an effective framework for developing technology skills that are a prerequisite for achieving proficiency for the ISTE Standards for Teachers

Technology need assessments and teacher technology surveys will provide data for determining professional development plans, needs and strategies. Under the District School Improvement Plan, technology integration is covered under each of the content area specific strategies. This should allow for significant staff input and planning at the regularly scheduled staff/team/department meetings.

Timeline

The timeline under the Technology Integration section of this document provides a visual representation of professional development strategies and practices.

Standards

Professional development should provide content that is consistent with the district technology goals and vision and should be aligned with state (METS) and national (NETS or ISTE) benchmarks and standards. Teachers and administrators should receive training that is aligned with the NETS(ISTE) for Teachers and NETS(ISTE) for Administrators’ standards.

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**SUPPORTING RESOURCES** Section 10

St. Louis Public Schools has built up a significant support structure to support the entire technology program at a number of different levels.

Locally, the major sources for initial and ongoing technology training and support will come from Gratiot-Isabella Regional Educational Service District, and the St. Louis Public Schools Educational Technology and Data Services Department. The district web site, school E-mail and discussion groups will allow for easy and effective dissemination of training materials and “tips and tricks”. Texts, videos, and interactive video are available via the Internet.

At the state and federal level St. Louis Public Schools has had several opportunities to gain significant technology resources for use by staff. The state of Michigan TRIG program is enhancing and augmenting locally provided services. Yearly Title VI funds have been utilized for the purchase of technology resources for the classroom. Discounts on Internet access and dial tone services provided by USF participation have significantly reduced the overhead costs for these services and allowed those funds to be reallocated to support other technology implementations at the district and building level.

**INFRASTRUCTURE, HARDWARE,

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TECHHNICAL SUPPORT AND SOFTWARE** Section 11

Technology Infrastructure All of the District buildings connected in a Wide Area Network utilizing single-mode fiber optic cabling. The High School houses the hub for most network services. The St. Louis High School MDF is in turn connected to the GI-RESD via single-mode fiber optic cabling. Within the buildings, all IDF closets are connected to the MDFs utilizing multimode fiber. Voice and data cabling to the classrooms and administrative offices is sufficient for current and future applications. Wireless technology has been installed in all buildings. Exterior door security devices have been installed in all buildings. With the passage of the recent bond proposal, St. Louis Schools will begin moving toward a 1 to 1 initiative using Google Chromebooks. It is expected that the initiative will begin at the high school level, possibly as early as January of 2015 and then work its way down through the middle school and elementary schools. Network With the upgrades provided by Federal and State grant funding the cabling infrastructure supporting the voice and data networking is of the highest quality. The Ruckus wireless system serve the District well and will be updated and expanded as funding allows. The data network is a HP backed network. The core switches at both the High School and Middle School are HP Procurve series modular chassis systems that allow for expandability and custom configuration. As part of the refresh cycle, new HP switches with Power over Ethernet have been placed in each of the closets to facilitate the placement of wireless and security devices. All HP equipment comes with a lifetime “noquestions-asked” warranty. In addition to the wired infrastructure, all buildings now have full coverage with wireless connectivity. The wireless product is a commercial grade RUCKUS Wireless system supporting wireless connections at speeds of up to 800Mbps.

Cloud based services

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Google for Education is utilized throughout the District for staff and students. This system provides web based email and software applications (including Google Drive / Docs), collaboration tools (including instant messaging along with sharing of documents), and online file storage. Classroom Equipment All classrooms are equipped with a teacher computer, projector, and document camera. The projectors in St. Louis High School , Middle School and Elementary buildings are new within the last two years and are being replaced with the latest models as needed. Student response systems and cameras are available in some classrooms. Additional classroom equipment will be provided with General Funds, Title, TRIG, and other grant funds as they are available.

Strategies for Sustainability

Recognizing that technology requires constant attention and funding the St. Louis Public School District has made a commitment to the students, the community and to itself to continue the technology advancements of recent years, and to sustain a constant influx of updated technology equipment into the district whenever possible. As shown on the timeline on page 16, St. Louis Public School performs an analysis of technology needs, based on curriculum needs, on a yearly basis and determines technology purchases based on those needs. Most major technology upgrades/updates are performed during the summer months so as not to disrupt the educational process.

The establishment of a technology budget line item specifically designated for new equipment purchases has ensure that St. Louis Public Schools has a constant yearly influx of new computer technology. By continually adding new equipment and “trickling down” older computer equipment the district can ensure that all students have the necessary technology to support curriculum integration. All new equipment should have at least a three-year manufacturer’s hardware warranty.

Technical Support

St. Louis Public Schools technical support has expanded to keep pace with ever increasing needs. Currently the district has contracted with the Gratiot-Isabella RESD for all technology support services, which provides a collaborative effort to support the entire district.

St. Louis Public Schools is committed to maintaining this collaboration with Gratiot Isabella RESD to maintain a technical support department that provides the best possible training, guidance, and direction, along with professional hardware, and software support

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for the district. The Gratiot-Isabella Regional Educational Service District (GI-RESD), provides a second tier of support for major school administrative functions. Decisions to repair or replace failed hardware resources will be made on a case-by-case basis by the technology staff.

**INCREASED ACCESS** Section 12

The St. Louis Public School District has made high speed Internet access available to every building in the district. The addition of the Ruckus wireless network has provided for access from almost every possible location in the district.

By setting a budget line item for the annual purchase of new technology equipment St. Louis Public Schools intends to gradually and steadily increase the physical technology available in classrooms. This gradual, steady increase of classroom technology will be supplemented by purchases of technology devices using TRIG and title funding. St. Louis Public Schools intends to increase training and professional development and give the staff time to examine, evaluate, and implement technology integration across all curricular levels and areas. Access for all students is currently increased with the implementation of both after and before school programs, and with the deployment of over 100 mobile devices.

**FUNDING AND BUDGET**

Section 13

2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18

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The budget planning process is driven by the St. Louis Public School District's vision for technology and the goals and expectations for student learning. St. Louis’s Coordination of Resources plan includes not only direct funding via grants and the districts general fund, but also complementary approaches such as incentives, along with contributions from businesses, universities, and individuals.

Expenditures

Salaries/Benefits 92,500 95050 97675 170,153

Title I 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000TRIG 11,400 11,400 11,400 11,400

Title IV 20,300 20,300 20,300 20,300General Fund 10,000 10,000 1,000 30,000Internet Access 7,300 7,300 7,300 7,300Repairs / Maint 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000

Software Licensing 56,950 12,950 56,950 12,950

Total expenditures 211,450 170,000 216,625 265,103Rapid advances in technology and the associated price fluctuations make it extremely difficult to forecast the amount of technology funding that may be necessary in the coming years. The following table provides actual technology expenditures for the 201415 school year, and estimated expenditures through the 2017-18 school year.

The timeline on page 16 provides a timetable and approximate implementation times for many budget items

**COORDINATION OF RESOURCES** Section 14

St. Louis Public Schools and the surrounding community will continue to leverage funding and support from a variety of sources to maintain the implementation of this

technology plan. Those sources could include, but may not be limited to: General Funds, both District and Building level

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Bond Millage St. Louis Sharks Technology Foundation Universal Service Fund Michigan Grant Sources, MCAL and MI chanpions Federal Grant Sources Foundation Grant Sources Donations

St. Louis Public Schools intends to continue to explore any and all partnership opportunities with local, state, and national stakeholders. Opportunities to raise funds to expand the district's financial resources available for technology are continually explored including Title moneys, matching grants, and sinking funds.

**MONITORING AND EVALUATION** Section 15

St. Louis Public Schools will use three main sources of information to evaluate the implementation of its technology plan.

The first and possibly most valuable tool will be a technology survey of the teaching staff. The original survey provided both quantitative and qualitative data to the technology department, building principals, and administration.

The Instructional Support Specialist will provide first hand feedback of district staff technology level readiness.

An evaluation plan matrix will be used. The matrix will cover indicators of success and accomplishments, progress toward goals, and focus areas for improvement for all major components of the technology plan. A sample of this matrix is attached in the Appendix Section (a). The evaluation matrix will be an evolving document and will be modified and updated to meet the current district situation and needs.

The district Technology Director will be responsible for collecting and correlating results and leading the technology committee.

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Filtering description and AUP

St. Louis Public Schools uses a filtering solution provided by the Gratiot Isabella RESD (MMNET) as well as local restrictions on specific web site usage.

MMNET Statement of CIPA Compliance

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There are three basic requirements in the CIPA legislation that e-rate applicants must meet or be “undertaking actions” to meet: 1. The school or library must use blocking or filtering technology on all computers

with Internet access. The blocking or filtering must protect against access to certain visual depictions.

2. The school or library must adopt and implement an Internet safety policy that addresses the criteria described below.

3. The school or library must hold a public meeting, as described below, to discuss the Internet safety policy.

As part of it’s Internet services, MMNET offers a web-filtering product that helps a school district to meet the first of the requirements above. The district must still take actions to meet the final two requirements. MMNET uses the product SmartFilter which is produced by Secure Computing. This product allows MMNET to divide users into groups based on the address of their computer. It further allows MMNET to designate individual block lists for each group. It is therefore a simple exercise for MMNET to assign all student-accessible computers in St. Louis to the “St. Louis-student” group and to assign a fairly restrictive list of categories to this group. It can then create a “St. Louis-teacher” group and assign a less restrictive list of categories to that group. As part of the annual subscription service, SmartFilter provides lists of sites that are divided into categories. These site lists are updated at least once a week. The district selects which of the categories below should be blocked:

Sex Drugs Hate Speech Crim. Skills

Nudity Online Sales Gambling Personal

Job Search Sports Games Humor

MP3 Sites Entertainment Lifestyle Extreme

Chat Investing Gen. News Politics/Religion

Dating Art/Culture Cults/Occult Usenet News

Self Help/Health Travel Mature Webmail

Portal Sites Anonymizer/Translator

The CIPA legislation identifies three areas that must be filtered:

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1. Obscenity 2. Child pornography 3. Materials harmful to minors (minors only) By design, the legislation leaves a lot of the details up to the district. The legislation only requires the blocking of images, not text. It also does not distinguish between student and teacher computers, but simply requires that all computers be filtered. The product that MMNET has selected allows districts to comply with the CIPA requirements while offering maximum flexibility to the district.

Acceptable Use Policy

ST. LOUIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS COMPUTER RESOURCES STUDENT USE POLICY

08/28/12 General Information The Internet is composed of an enormous number of computer systems, some of which contain defamatory, abusive, threatening, racially offensive, illegal, illicit, or otherwise inappropriate material. By signing this document, you are agreeing to refrain from visiting such sites while using the St. Louis Public Schools network. Signing this document indicates that you have read and agree to the terms and conditions and that you understand their significance. Terms and Conditions Computer users at St. Louis agree to the Terms and Conditions set forth in this document. Access to the Internet and to the networks of St. Louis Public Schools is a privilege, not a right. Users agree to engage in activity which is legal and non-disruptive to other users. Specifically, they agree to the following:

Use of St. Louis computers must be in support of education and research, and must be consistent with the educational objectives of the St. Louis Public School District. Any activity which fosters that purpose is encouraged. Any activity which does not is discouraged, and in some cases is prohibited.

Network Rules/Etiquette You will abide by the generally accepted rules of computer network etiquette.

1. Be polite. Do not be abusive in your messages or communications to others. 2. Use appropriate language. 3. Do not disclose the home address, phone number, or other personal information of yourself or

anyone else. 4. Do not use the network in such a way as to be disruptive to the use of the network by others.

Security and Safety Security on any networked computer system is critical, especially when the system involves a variety of users. Student must adhere to the Student Handbook, Acceptable Use Policy, and all Board policies. St.

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Louis Public Schools will review cyber-safety rules with students frequently throughout the course of the school year, and will offer reminders and reinforcement regarding safe and appropriate online behaviors.

1. Do not attempt to gain security codes, passwords, or other private information aside from those provided specifically to you by the system administrator.

2. Do not share your security codes or passwords with anyone. 3. Do not misrepresent yourself on the system in any way. 4. Unauthorized efforts to log on to St. Louis networks or the Internet as another user will result

in cancellation of all computer privileges. 5. St. Louis Public Schools reserves the right, at their sole discretion, to suspend or terminate a

user’s access to St. Louis Public Schools network upon any breach of the Terms and Conditions.

6. Any action by any user that is deemed threatening to the integrity or usability of the St. Louis Public Schools network system, or any other computer system(s), could result in the immediate loss of some or all privileges and could result in disciplinary actions as outlined in current district policy.

7. St. Louis Public Schools adheres to federal requirements regarding the CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act). Any attempt to circumvent this act could result in

the loss of all privileges and could result in civil or criminal charges being filed. 8. Understand that certain content may be blocked/filtered based on individual web site graphics,

content, language, or other criteria based on our content filter provided by the Gratiot Isabella RESD (Smartfilter).

9. Understand that all electronic activity can/may/will be logged and audited 10. Student may not use any device to record, transmit, or post images or video of person or

persons on campus during school activities and/or hours unless specifically given permission by a teacher and Administration.

11. No electronic devices that can record, broadcast, or transmit images audio or video may be used under any circumstances in the following areas/situations:

a) Locker rooms b) Bathrooms c) Any private areas used for the purpose of clothing changing d) Any other areas designated by administration e) During emergency drill or situations 12. Printing from electronic devices may or may not be permitted. 13. St. Louis Public Schools reserves the right to confiscate and potentially examine any device,

even “privately owned” devices, when a student is suspected of violating this Acceptable Use Policy or any other Board policy or guideline. Students involved in such acts will be disciplined according to policy and legal authorities will be contacted if local, state, federal or FCC policies or laws are violated.

Contract Applicant I understand and will abide by the Terms and Conditions set forth in this document. I further understand that any violation of these regulations may result in the loss of some or all access privileges, school disciplinary action, and/or legal action. _______________________________________ ____________________________ Students’s Name (please print) Student ID Grade __________________________________________________________________________ Students’s Signature Date

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Parent or Guardian As the parent or guardian of the above Student, I have read the Terms and Conditions. I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. I also recognize that it is impossible for St. Louis Public Schools to completely restrict access to all controversial materials, and I will not hold the district responsible for supervision if and when my child’s use is non-educational. I hereby grant permission to issue an account for my child and certify that the information contained on this form is correct. ___________________________________ Parent or Guardian’s Name (please print) ____________________________________ ________________________ Parent or Guardian’s Signature Date

ST. LOUIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS COMPUTER RESOURCES STAFF USE POLICY

05/18/05 General Information The Internet is composed of an enormous number of computer systems, some of which contain defamatory, abusive, threatening, racially offensive, illegal, illicit, or otherwise inappropriate material. By signing this document, you are agreeing to refrain from visiting or attempting to visit such sites while using computers owned and/or maintained by St. Louis Public Schools. Signing this document indicates that you have read and agree to the terms and conditions and that you understand their significance. Terms and Conditions Computer users at St. Louis Public Schools agree to the Terms and Conditions of use as set forth in our ISP’s (Internet Service Provider) Terms and Conditions. EdZone is the current ISP of St. Louis Public Schools. Terms and Conditions of use for EdZone are attached as Attachment #1. The most recent Terms and Conditions of EdZone use, may always be found at HTTP://www.edzone.net . In addition, users of St. Louis Public Schools computer and network systems must agree that:

Use of district computers will be in support of education and research, and will be consistent with the educational objectives of St. Louis Public Schools. Any activity which fosters that purpose is encouraged. Any activity which does not is discouraged, and in some cases is prohibited.

Network and Internet Rules/Etiquette

You will abide by the generally accepted rules of computer network etiquette. At present, these include (but are not limited to) the following: 1. Be polite. Do not be abusive in any messages to others.

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2. Use appropriate language. 3. Do not disclose the home address and/or phone number of yourself or anyone

else. 4. Do not use the network in such a way as to be disruptive to the use of the

network by others. 5. Vandalism could result in disciplinary action as outlined in current district

policy. 6. Understand that all activity on St. Louis Public Schools network, can, may,

and will be occasionally audited. This includes monitoring of web pages and web sites visited on an individual user basis.

Security Security on any networked computer system is critical, especially when the system involves a variety of users. 1. Do not attempt to gain security codes, passwords, or other private information

aside from those provided specifically to you by the system administrator. 2. Do not share your security codes or passwords with anyone. 3. Do not misrepresent yourself on the system in any way. 4. Unauthorized efforts to log on to St. Louis Public Schools networks or the

Internet as another user could result in disciplinary action as outlined in current district policy.

5. St. Louis Public Schools reserves the right, at their sole discretion, to suspend or terminate a user’s access to district computers upon any breach of the Terms and Conditions.

6. Any action by any user that is deemed threatening to the integrity or usability of the St. Louis Public Schools network system, or any other computer system(s), could result in the immediate loss of some or all privileges and could result in disciplinary actions as outlined in current district policy. (The above statement is commonly known as “the hacker clause”. It gives the district very broad grounds to remove or suspend accounts or users that may be intentionally or unintentionally threatening the stability, usability, or finite network resources of the St. Louis Public Schools network or other computer systems.)

7. St. Louis Public Schools adheres to federal requirements regarding the CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act). Any attempt to circumvent this act could

result in the loss of all privileges and could result in civil or criminal charges being filed.

8. Understand that certain content may be blocked/filtered based on individual web site graphics, content, language, or other criteria based on our content filter provided by the Gratiot Isabella RESD (Smartfilter).

Contract (this application must be signed and dated before it can be processed):

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Applicant I understand and will abide by the Terms and Conditions set forth in this document. I further understand that any violation of these regulations may result in the loss of some or all access privileges, district disciplinary action as outlined in the district’s Administrative Policy, and/or legal action. _______________________________________________ Applicant’s Name (please print)

__________ Applicant’s Signature Date

APPENDIX SECTION (a)

St. Louis Public Schools Technology Review Matrix

Elements of Accomplishments Progress Areas for Notes

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Technology Plan Toward Goal

Improvement

Mission/Vision

Goals

Infrastructure

Curriculum Integration

Collaboration

Professional development

Technical Support

Supporting ResourcesTimeline

Cost/Budget

Coordination of ResourcesEvaluation

Acceptable Use Policy

Communications

Overall Impact onStudent

Achievement

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Documents

TECHNOLOGY PLAN SUMMARY SHEET - Web viewSituated in northern Gratiot County, Michigan, the community of St. Louis was settled in